Rotisserie Chicken Burrito Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate rotisserie chicken burrito recipe! If you're looking for a delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, you've come to the right place. This recipe is a game-changer because it takes the convenience of rotisserie chicken and elevates it into a flavorful, homemade burrito that rivals your favorite restaurant's version.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for the Burrito

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup fresh salsa
• 1 cup guacamole
• Sour cream (optional)

Optional Toppings and Add-ons

• Shredded lettuce
• Chopped cilantro
• Jalapeño slices
• Lime wedges
• Hot sauce

Preparing the Rotisserie Chicken

How to Shred the Chicken

Start by removing the skin from the rotisserie chicken. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to separate the white meat (breast) from the dark meat (thighs and legs) for an even mix.

Seasoning the Chicken for Extra Flavor

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, along with a teaspoon of cumin, a teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well-seasoned.

Making the Rice

Ingredients for Flavorful Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Cooking Instructions

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Add the chicken broth, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Preparing the Beans

Choosing the Right Beans

Black beans are a classic choice for burritos, but you can also use pinto beans or refried beans depending on your preference.

Seasoning and Cooking the Beans

In a small saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the beans, a teaspoon of cumin, a teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for 5 minutes until the beans are heated through and seasoned.

Making the Guacamole

Ingredients for Fresh Guacamole

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash with a fork until slightly chunky. Add the diced tomato, red onion, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.

Preparing the Salsa

Fresh Salsa Ingredients

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Simple Salsa Recipe

In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assembling the Burrito

Warming the Tortillas

To make your tortillas pliable, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Layering the Ingredients

Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. In the center, layer the shredded chicken, rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and guacamole. Be careful not to overfill to ensure easy folding.

Folding the Burrito

Step-by-Step Folding Instructions

1. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling.
2. Fold the bottom of the tortilla over the filling.
3. Roll tightly towards the top while keeping the sides tucked in.

Tips for a Perfectly Wrapped Burrito

Ensure that the filling is evenly distributed and avoid overstuffing. This helps in achieving a neat, secure wrap.

Optional Add-ons

Cheese, Lettuce, and Other Toppings

Customize your burrito with shredded lettuce, extra cheese, jalapeño slices, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add texture and flavor.

How to Customize Your Burrito

Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on your preferences. Swap out chicken for beef or pork, or add grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.

Cooking the Burrito

Pan-Seared vs. Oven-Baked

For a crispy burrito, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and cook the burrito seam-side down for 2-3 minutes on each side. Alternatively, bake the burrito in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.

Cooking Tips for Crispiness

Brush the burrito with a little oil before pan-searing or baking to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes That Complement the Burrito

Serve your burrito with a side of tortilla chips and salsa, Mexican rice, or a simple green salad.

Drinks That Pair Well

Pair your burrito with a refreshing beverage like a cold beer, a margarita, or a glass of iced tea.

Healthier Variations

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options

Use a low-carb tortilla and substitute the rice and beans with cauliflower rice and sautéed bell peppers for a keto-friendly version.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

For a vegetarian burrito, replace the chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu. Use vegan cheese and skip the sour cream for a vegan option.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Best Practices for Storage

Wrap any leftover burritos tightly in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat for Best Flavor

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate rotisserie chicken burrito recipe! This versatile and delicious dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you're meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner with friends. Give it a try, and enjoy the flavors of a homemade burrito that's both convenient and mouthwatering.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Feel free to use beef, pork, or even seafood as a substitute for rotisserie chicken.

How can I make my burrito spicier?

Add more jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to your filling for an extra kick.

Can I freeze the burritos?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled burritos. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What are some good side dishes?

Great side dishes include tortilla chips with guacamole, Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad.

How do I keep my burrito from getting soggy?

Ensure that any ingredients with excess moisture, like salsa or guacamole, are drained or patted dry before adding them to the burrito. Additionally, avoid overfilling to prevent sogginess.